Working Machine Ground Pressure Distribution Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing work machines, such as excavators and cranes, face operational complexities due to the need for additional support plates that complicate ground pressure distribution management, leading to inefficient and uneven ground pressure distribution.

Innovation Solution

A work machine equipped with a regulation/control device that utilizes a pressure measuring system to adjust the pressure in support cylinders, allowing for optimized ground pressure distribution by redistributing the force between tracks/wheels and support plates, and shifting the center of gravity for improved load distribution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stress or pressure

If additional support plates and outrigger cylinders are provided to distribute ground pressure, then ground pressure distribution is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveground pressure distributionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stress or pressureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention integrates the ground pressure distribution function into the existing support structure by using support plates that are already part of the machine (such as track shoes or wheel flanges) rather than adding separate outrigger systems. The pressure regulating device combines the support function and pressure distribution function into a single integrated system, eliminating the need for additional independent components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The support plates serve multiple functions: they provide structural support for the machine weight and simultaneously act as pressure distribution elements. The pressure regulating device controls pressure distribution through the same support structure that bears the machine load, making the system multi-functional and avoiding additional dedicated components for pressure management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Stress or pressure

If additional support plates and outrigger cylinders are provided to distribute ground pressure, then ground pressure distribution is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveground pressure distributionVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Stress or pressureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The pressure regulating device is configured to automatically control the pressure in support cylinders based on the load and ground conditions. The system can self-regulate the pressure distribution without requiring manual intervention or complex operator procedures, thereby maintaining ease of operation while achieving improved ground pressure distribution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system adjusts pressure distribution by dynamically changing the pressure parameter in the support cylinders. This continuous parameter adjustment allows the machine to adapt to varying ground conditions and load distributions automatically, simplifying operation compared to discrete mechanical adjustments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Stress or pressure

If pressure in support cylinder is regulated to optimize ground pressure distribution, then ground pressure distribution is improved, but measurement precision requirement increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveground pressure distributionVSAvoidmeasurement precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Stress or pressureVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The pressure regulating device uses pressure sensors to monitor the actual pressure in the support cylinders and feeds this information back to the control system. Based on the feedback signal, the control system adjusts the hydraulic pressure to achieve the desired ground pressure distribution, maintaining a closed-loop control system that compensates for measurement uncertainties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The invention replaces complex mechanical measurement and adjustment mechanisms with a hydraulic pressure control system. Instead of using mechanical linkages and physical adjustments to control pressure distribution, the system uses hydraulic pressure regulation with electronic sensing and control, which provides more precise and easier-to-control pressure management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution simplifies the operation of work machines by enabling automatic or manual adjustment of ground pressure distribution, reducing ground pressure while maintaining stability, thereby minimizing subsurface preparation requirements and enhancing operational efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

at least one pressure measuring device for measuring the pressure in the support cylinder

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure measurement:

Implementation Method 2

at least one support cylinder for adjusting the support plate relative to the rest of the working machine's structure

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydraulic pressure: Hydraulic Press

Data Source

PatentEP3530817B1Working machine with a device for adjusting the floor pressure distribution of the working machine
Publication Date: 2021.12.22 LIEBHERR WERK NENZING
  • EP3530817B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3530817B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3530817B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a device for changing the ground pressure distribution of a working machine, comprising at least one support plate for supporting the working machine against its ground and at least one support cylinder for adjusting the support plate relative to the rest of the working machine's structure, and including at least one pressure measuring device for measuring the pressure in the support cylinder. The device is configured to change the ground pressure distribution by regulating/controlling the pressure in the support cylinder. The invention further relates to a corresponding working machine.